Lead UAS Build & Test Technician

AeroVironment; Simi Valley (CA); On-site; USD 32,000 - 48,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical benefits

401K with company matching

9/80 work schedule

Paid holiday shutdown

Job summary

AeroVironment in California is looking for an Engineering Development Technician II to join the hands-on lab team, assembling and testing unmanned aircraft systems and related sub-assemblies under supervision. You will perform mechanical/electrical assembly, basic integration, and support prototype builds while documenting steps and maintaining safety in a fast-paced environment.

The role requires leadership experience, strong technical knowledge in electronics/mechanics, and the ability to

Qualifications

• High School diploma or GED equivalent is required or equivalent combination of education, training, and experience
• Minimum 5+ years in manufacture, assembly and flight test of UAS aircraft systems
• Minimum of 2+ years’ experience effectively leading and supervising product build teams
• General proficiency with Microsoft Office Software and general computer skills
• Ability to interpret a variety of instructions furnished in written, oral, diagram or schedule form
• Possesses strong large scale composite knowledge or aerospace/UAV systems
• Possesses fundamental knowledge in electrical and mechanical systems
• Must have ability to analyze and solve problems; must be able to handle technician resource issues in a timely manner as they arise
• Experience working with manufacturing systems, processes and procedures
• Must be able to support travel and deployments of minimum two week increments (Frequent)
• Periods of development may require long irregular hours around deadlines, weekends and some holidays and in field test environments

Responsibilities

• Perform basic mechanical and electrical assembly, integration, and rework of unmanned systems and sub‑assemblies by following standard procedures and work instructions
• Use common shop equipment and tools in a safe and correct manner
• Support prototype hardware builds, including wiring harness assembly, basic avionics and payload installation, setup and teardown of ground support equipment under guidance
• Assist with part kitting, inventory checks, and build preparation to help meet project schedules
• Accurately document build steps, work performed, and any issues found using standard forms or templates
• Identify straightforward issues during assembly and elevate complex problems to senior technicians or engineers
• Follow detailed engineering instructions and provide clear feedback when instructions are unclear
• Build and use simple fixtures, tools, and jigs as directed using basic fabrication methods
• Help maintain clean, organized lab and shop areas in accordance with 5S and safety guidelines
• Support test activities by setting up test articles and basic instrumentation, running predefined test procedures under supervision, and recording data
• Participate in required safety training and follow all safety procedures
• Perform other duties as assigned in support of engineering development and testing

Skills

Experience in UAS assembly

Leadership / supervision

MS Office proficiency

Instruction interpretation

Problem solving

Education

High School diploma or GED

Technical coursework or certificate

Tools

Basic 3D printing

CAD software (SolidWorks/Fusion 360)

Job description

AeroVironment in California is looking for an Engineering Development Technician II to join the hands-on lab team, assembling and testing unmanned aircraft systems and related sub-assemblies under supervision. You will perform mechanical/electrical assembly, basic integration, and support prototype builds while documenting steps and maintaining safety in a fast-paced environment.

The role requires leadership experience, strong technical knowledge in electronics/mechanics, and the ability to